Not sure about reflexology? In this article, our resident reflexologist Pamela Couper busts some myths about this (very) long-established holistic treatment for wellbeing, with its roots in ancient Egypt, India and China.
Myth: Reflexology hurts!
Reflexology is a gentle touch treatment. The therapist uses their hands, thumbs and fingers to work over each foot in set sequences. As your therapist, I always check whether the pressure feels comfortable for you. You can get benefits from even the gentlest of pressure. Any treatment I offer is usually both very relaxing and very enjoyable.
Myth: It is just a pamper session
Reflexology can definitely make you feel pampered, very chilled and relaxed. It is also much more than that! There is a lot of research that shows additional benefits to health and wellbeing. These studies have focused on health conditions including headaches, migraines, lymphatic drainage, preparation for labour and maternal health.
As your therapist I do a full health and wellbeing consultation at your first appointment. I then design an individual treatment to support your health and wellbeing concerns.
Myth: I can’t have reflexology because I have tickly feet!
Even if you have the most ticklish of feet, the way reflexology is done on the feet does not make your feet tickle. The treatment can easily be adapted to address any concerns – and we can also switch to working on your hands and face. It would be such a shame to miss out on the many benefits of reflexology for something that can be simply addressed. If you have any concerns at all please just get in touch for a chat.
Myth: I can’t have reflexology because I have horrible feet!
Everyone has feet that are individual to them. The most important thing for me as your therapist is the experience you have of the treatment. I don’t mind what your feet are like. Reflexology provides great benefits to all feet and the person they belong to.
Myth: Reflexology can diagnose illnesses
A reflexology treatment can identify areas of the body that are under stress or out of balance. As your therapist I can then discuss this with you. In talking together, we can often identify why this might be. It may be that this is related to stress, recent physical exertion or lifestyle influences. I may advise you to seek medical advice if this discussion raised any additional health concerns for you.
Myth: It’s just a faddy thing!
Reflexology has been practised in ancient cultures for thousands of years, along with related holistic approaches to health and wellbeing. In more recent times, Western cultures have recognised the value in these ancient therapies – including reflexology.
People are increasingly recognising reflexology can play a positive role in supporting an individual’s health and wellbeing. It is here to stay!
Myth: It is a foot massage
It is more than a foot treatment alone. Working on the foot (or face or hands) provides you with whole body and mind benefits.
That’s some of the myths. Here are some real boundaries:
- Reflexologists never diagnose and do not offer a cure for any illness or condition
- If you have any concerns about your health I would always advise you to consult a doctor in the first instance
- Reflexology is a complementary therapy and is designed to complement and not be used as an alternative to medical advice or intervention
If you have any further questions please get in touch with Pamela via hello@pamelacouperreflexology.co.uk to see how you could best benefit from this gentle and non-invasive therapy.
by Pamela Couper, reflexologist
a version of this article first appeared on Pamela’s own website, where you can also see
more details about the treatments she offers: www.pamelacouperreflexology.co.uk
